Solovair
NPS Shoes Ltd · United Kingdom
Solovair is an English boot and shoe brand made by NPS Shoes in Wollaston, Northamptonshire. It produces Goodyear welted, air-cushioned boots and shoes and traces its manufacturing heritage back to 1881.
| Maker | NPS Shoes Ltd |
|---|---|
| Heritage since | 1881 |
| Location | Wollaston, Northamptonshire |
| Trademark registered | 1995 |
| Construction | Goodyear welt |
| Website | nps-solovair.com |
What is Solovair?
Solovair is the footwear brand of NPS Shoes Ltd, a manufacturer based in Wollaston, Northamptonshire, a region long associated with English shoemaking. The brand makes boots and shoes in a range of styles, colours and eyelet counts.
History
NPS began in 1881 as a cooperative, the Northamptonshire Productive Society. In 1960 it worked with the R. Griggs Group to create the first Dr. Martens boot, which used a Solovair sole. NPS produced Dr. Martens footwear under licence until the mid-1990s and trademarked the Solovair name in 1995. Since then it has made its own air-cushioned boots using the same lasts, cutters and machines.
Products and positioning
- All shoes use Goodyear welt construction
- Solovair is known for its Puritan stitch and grey stitching around the sole
- A green and black pull loop and the label Made in England since 1881
NPS also manufactures footwear for other labels, including Gripfast, George Cox, Vegetarian Shoes, Grinders and Tredair.
Why it matters
Solovair is one of the few boot brands still produced in a historic Northamptonshire factory, and its heritage connects directly to the origins of the classic air-cushioned work boot.
Frequently asked questions
Where are Solovair boots made?
Solovair boots are made by NPS Shoes in Wollaston, Northamptonshire, England.
What is the connection between Solovair and Dr. Martens?
In 1960 NPS worked with R. Griggs to create the first Dr. Martens boot using a Solovair sole, and it made Dr. Martens under licence until the mid-1990s.